"They are the catalyst for Indian Sovereignty ..."
(Photo credit: http://www.aimovement.org )
In the 30 years of its formal history, the American Indian Movement (AIM) has given witness to a great many changes. We say formal history, because the movement existed for 500 years without a name. The leaders and members of today's AIM never fail to remember all of those who have traveled on before, having given their talent and their lives for the survival of the people.
The movement was founded in 1968 to turn the attention of Indian people toward a renewal of spirituality which would impart the strength of resolve needed to reverse the ruinous policies of the United States, Canada, and other colonialist governments of Central and South America. At the heart of AIM is deep spirituality and a belief in the connectedness of all Indian people. During the past thirty years, AIM has organized communities and created opportunities for people across the Americas and Canada.
The American Indian Movement has repeatedly brought successful suits for the protection of the rights of Native Nations guaranteed in treaties and sovereignty. The philosophy of self-determination upon which the movement is built is deeply rooted in traditional spirituality, culture, language and history.
From: A Brief History of the American Indian Movement by Laura Waterman Wittstock & Elaine J. Salinas
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